Loading...
Crossing to the other side of the Aegean, swimming in Didim in the morning and watching the sunset in Kos with a glass of ouzo in the evening… Sounds tempting, doesn’t it?
Thanks to the Greek island gate visa scheme, traveling to Kos has become much more accessible for Turkish passport holders. But is the Kos gate visa still valid in 2026? How exactly do you get from Didim to Kos? What are the costs and procedures?
Here is your fully updated 2026 guide.
Kos (also known as Istanköy in Turkish) is located just 20–30 minutes by ferry from Bodrum. Its proximity makes it one of the easiest international getaway destinations from the Aegean coast.
The gate visa (limited territorial validity visa) allows Turkish citizens holding ordinary (burgundy) passports to visit specific Greek islands without applying for a standard Schengen visa.
As of 2026, the gate visa scheme remains valid for selected islands, including Kos.
Important:
This is not a full Schengen visa. It allows entry only to the island you apply for. You cannot travel to mainland Greece or other Schengen countries with this visa.
If you’re planning a short island holiday of up to one week, the gate visa remains a practical solution in 2026.
As of 2026, the gate visa applies to the following islands:
Kos
Rhodes
Samos
Lesvos (Mytilene)
Chios
Leros
Kalymnos
Patmos
Symi
Kastellorizo (Meis)
The list may be subject to seasonal updates, so confirmation before travel is recommended.
As of 2026, there are no direct ferry services from Didim to Kos. Transportation is organized as a combination of land transfer and sea crossing.
The process works as follows:
Land transfer from Didim to Bodrum Port
International ferry from Bodrum Port to Kos Island
Didim to Bodrum transfer: approximately 1.5 hours
Bodrum to Kos ferry: 20–30 minutes (high-speed ferry)
Including port procedures and passport control, the total journey typically takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on seasonal congestion.
High season (May–September): Daily departures, often multiple sailings per day
Low season: Reduced frequency
Round-trip Bodrum – Kos ferry tickets:
Approximately 55 – 80 euros
Children’s fares vary by operator
Prices fluctuate depending on season and demand
Transfer costs depend on the service provider and group size.
Bodrum Port becomes very busy during summer. If your land transfer and ferry departure are not properly coordinated, you may face:
Missed ferry departures
Long waiting times
Additional expenses
Unnecessary stress
For this reason, organizing transfer, ferry tickets, and gate visa procedures together ensures a smoother travel experience.
Didim Avesta Travel office organizes:
Didim – Bodrum transfers
Bodrum – Kos ferry tickets
Travel coordination and planning
This integrated planning model allows travelers to complete all transport and ticketing procedures in a coordinated and secure manner.
For a smooth transition to Kos Island, professional planning is especially recommended during peak season.
Turkish citizens holding ordinary (burgundy) passports
Green, grey, and diplomatic passport holders can travel visa-free and do not require a gate visa.
Maximum 7 days
Single-entry
Valid only for the specific island of entry
Visa fee: approximately 60 – 80 euros
Service fee: approximately 20 – 40 euros
Total cost typically ranges between 90 – 120 euros, depending on the agency and season.
Applicants typically need:
Passport valid for at least 6 months
2 biometric photographs
Bank account statement from the last 3 months (showing sufficient funds)
Round-trip ferry ticket
Hotel reservation
Travel health insurance valid in Schengen area
Completed and signed application form
Passport must have at least 2 blank pages
Damaged passports may lead to rejection
Northern Cyprus (TRNC) entry stamps may create issues
Minors may require notarized parental consent
Choose your travel dates
Book ferry tickets and accommodation
Prepare required documents
Submit your application at least 7–10 days before travel
Await approval
Upon arrival at Kos Port:
Passport control is conducted
The visa sticker is placed in your passport
Entry is finalized after border control
Processing time at the port may vary depending on passenger volume.
Most frequent rejection reasons include:
Insufficient bank balance
Missing documents
Passport validity issues
Inadequate travel insurance coverage
Errors in the application form
Although the gate visa process is simpler than a Schengen visa, document accuracy remains critical.
Kos is small but rich in experiences.
Historic harbor, castle, and lively evening atmosphere.
Ancient healing center with panoramic views.
Clear waters and sandy beaches.
Famous for spectacular sunsets.
Kos is flat and bike-friendly, making exploration easy.
If you’re planning a short international holiday in 2026, Kos remains one of the most practical Greek island options from the Turkish Aegean coast.
May – June
September
July and August are busier and more expensive.
If you are staying in Didim, traveling via Bodrum to Kos is a logical option. Direct departure from Bodrum shortens total travel time.
Plan early, prepare your documents carefully, and avoid last-minute reservations during high season.
If properly organized, crossing from Didim to Kos with a gate visa in 2026 is straightforward and enjoyable.
Comments 0
Leave a comment
Leave a comment on this post